GC-MS and GC-FID Analysis of Citronella Oil Products for Indicator Ingredient Identification

Citronella oil, an essential oil extracted through steam distillation from the leaves and stems of Cymbopogon, is a natural complex substance (NCS) regulated by the Korean government for its use in insect repellents. The component ratios of NCSs like citronella oil vary due to differences in manufacturing processes and origins, presenting a challenge in identifying and quantifying these substances in consumer chemical products. This study analysed ten commercially available products of the most commonly used types of citronella oil, specifically Java and Ceylon types, using gas chromatography (GC)mass spectrometry (MS) and GC with flame ionization detection (FID). Through chromatographic data, we aimed to determine the components that can qualitatively identify citronella oil and the indicator ingredients that can be used for content analysis.